Breast cysts are usually harmless, but they could indicate a hormonal imbalance. We will go through the relationship between breast cysts and hormones.
Finding a lump in your breast can be concerning. While it’s essential to see a doctor when you find a lump, the good news is it’s most likely to be a benign breast cyst.
However, having cystic breasts is an indicator of a hormonal imbalance. You can naturally improve your hormonal balance and help get rid of breast cysts.
What is a Breast Cyst?
A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac that feels smooth to the touch. Cysts are prevalent, and one study found 90% of women will get a breast cyst. They are most common between 35 and 50 years old, particularly during perimenopause.
If you aren’t sure whether your lump is a cyst or not, see your doctor. They can determine whether the lump is a cyst using ultrasound or mammogram.
Symptoms of a Breast Cyst
Besides being smooth to the touch, the other telling symptoms a lump may be a cyst are:
- The lump increases in size and feels more tender in the luteal phase, right before your period.
- The lump shrinks and feels less painful once your period starts.
If it’s changing size with your cycle, it is most likely a cyst.
Breast Cysts and Hormones
The exact cause of breast cysts is unknown, but some studies have shown a relationship with hormonal imbalances. Breast cysts are most common during the perimenopausal years when our hormones keep fluctuating. Therefore, there is likely a hormonal component to breast cysts.
Low Progesterone
In a study of 30 women with large breast cysts, all 30 had low progesterone levels. Even though this study had a 100% low progesterone rate, that doesn’t mean all women with breast cysts have low progesterone. The study size was trivial, but it’s certainly something to investigate. Other symptoms of low progesterone are:
- Mood changes like anxiety or depression
- Migraines
- Spotting before your period
- Short luteal phase
- Infertility
You can see a complete list of symptoms and natural ways to improve low progesterone on the symptom hacker page for low progesterone.
Low Estrogen
In the same study of 30 women, about 2/3 of them had low estrogen levels as well. Some other symptoms of low estrogen are:
- Irritability
- Low immune function
- Long cycles
- Hot flashes
- Insomnia
- Migraines
- Dry skin
You can see a complete list of symptoms and natural ways to improve low estrogen on the symptom hacker page for low estrogen.
For the Skimmers – A Quick Summary
Breast cysts are common and usually harmless, but they may indicate a hormonal imbalance. If you have been diagnosed with breast cysts, you may have low progesterone or low estrogen levels.